Swimming with the fishes – Godfather style

Trips Worldwide’s new family adventure in Belize and Guatemala is set to be a big summer hit. Stay in famous film director Frances Ford Coppola’s trio of luxury lodges, see the real ‘crystal skull’, visit the Mayan site of Yaxha – location of the TV ‘Survivor’ series, go mountain biking, horseriding, kayaking, become an expert at making authentic corn tortillas and last but not least, get a complimentary ‘introduction to scuba diving’ lesson.

Packed with adventure, kids will love this trip, whilst a big plus for mums and dads is the luxurious accommodation provided throughout – no roughing it around this fascinating part of Central America!

Film director Frances Ford Coppola (The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, Dracula and The Rainmaker) established the first of his three Central American luxury retreats, Blancaneaux Lodge, in the Mountain Pine area of Belize, a region of lush green jungle reminiscent of the Philippine location where he filmed Apocalypse Now. Here, families stay in a two bedroom, two bathroom thatched cabana decorated with local artefacts. Complimentary activities include mountain biking, horseriding and a guided nature walk offering a great introduction to Belize’s rich flora and fauna.

Next, cross over into Guatemala to Coppola’s La Lancha, a wonderful rainforest lodge on the shores of Lake Peten-Itza, close to the Mayan sites of Yaxha (location for the TV ‘Survivor’ series) and the famous ancient citadel of Tikal. In addition to a guided tour of Tikal, back at La Lancha, families get a fun lesson on how to make an authentic tortilla, plus there’s complimentary use of the resort’s canoes and kayaks.

The final part of the holiday is spent at Coppola’s coastal lodge, Turtle Inn. Turtle Inn is a great place for families and ideally located for exploring the islands and barrier reef, plus the Mayan site of Lubataan, where the real crystal skull (as featured in the new Indiana Jones film) was found. While Kids 10 years and over receive a complimentary ‘introduction to scuba diving’ lesson including free rental of masks, fins and snorkel gear, mums and dads can relax in hammocks on their own beachside verandah.

The holiday costs from £7,834 per family based on 2 adults and 2 children (up to 18 years), scheduled flights, all transfers, accommodation with breakfast and activities as per itinerary. 14-night holidays depart London from 11th July – 23rd November 2008.

For more information, visit Tripsworldwide.co.uk.